Heat, cold, wind: how to preserve the beauty of your skin

October in Lithuania marks the true arrival of autumn: it’s chilly outside, heating is on at home or in the office, and air conditioners are in use in some places. Such changes in temperature and humidity have a significant impact on the condition of the skin. Without proper care, the skin becomes dry, sensitive, loses its sense of comfort, and ages faster. Let’s take a look at how exactly these external factors affect the skin and what Japanese skin care principles can help maintain its health and radiance during the cold season.

How does the cold season affect our skin?

1. Moisture loss and desiccation (TEWL)

Warm, dry air indoors reduces relative humidity, which directly promotes transepidermal water loss (TEWL) – moisture simply evaporates from the skin.
In addition, frequent hot showers, prolonged baths, and intensive facial cleansing damage the lipid barrier that protects the skin from drying out. The result is dehydrated skin, which loses elasticity and resilience.

2. Malfunction of the protective barrier

The skin surface is made up of keratinocytes and lipids in a “brick-like” structure, the balance of which is essential for skin health. Cold, wind, temperature changes and exposure to heat damage this barrier:
– moisture evaporates more easily,
– the skin becomes more sensitive to environmental irritants,
– the likelihood of stinging, itching, and redness increases.

3. Reduced firmness, elasticity and comfort

Prolonged dry air and temperature fluctuations contribute to the skin feeling tight, rough, and later, microcracks (especially around the nose, lips, and hands). This is a sign that the skin surface is damaged and needs help.

4. Hypersensitivity and irritation

The contrasting effects of heat and cold can cause micro-damages : the skin reacts with redness, stinging, tingling or even inflammatory reactions. This is especially relevant for those with sensitive skin, such as rosacea or atopic dermatitis.

5. Wrinkles and accelerated aging

Skin that is dehydrated and has a compromised barrier naturally ages faster. Dehydration makes fine lines more prominent, while cold and oxidative stress promote cell damage and accelerated skin aging.

Japanese methods: subtle but effective skin protection

The Japanese skincare philosophy ( J-Beauty ) is characterized by a holistic approach, where attention is paid not only to the external result, but also to the long-term health of the skin. Here are the main methods that are worth applying in Lithuania when the weather cools down:

1. Multi-layered care system (Layering)

The Japanese base their skin care on layering – each step complements the next:

Gentle cleaning (without aggressive detergents).
Lotion or toner – prepares the skin to absorb moisture.
Serum – active ingredients.
Moisturizing cream/milk – “locks” moisture on the surface of the skin.

▶ We recommend:

2. Lotion culture

Japanese lotions are not traditional toners, but functional, moisturizing liquids enriched with active ingredients. They absorb deeply, ensuring that the skin is prepared for the following products.

Use without cotton wool , patting into the skin with your palms - this way it does not damage its surface and the active ingredients are better absorbed.

3. Using a mist during the day

Humidity levels during the heating season often drop below 30%, so facial mists help maintain surface hydration. This is especially useful when working in an office or staying indoors for long periods of time.

4. Integration of lipids and oils

Barrier-protecting products with ceramides, natural oils, and lipids help to "lock in" moisture and protect against cold and wind.

▶ Look for creams that act as occlusives – that is, they form a protective film. This is especially important in the evening – when the skin is resting and regenerating.

5. Soothing, neutral formulas

During the cold season, choose cosmetics that are fragrance-free, alcohol-free, and free of aggressive active ingredients. Soothing ingredients – aloe vera, hyaluronic acid, peptides, and enzymes – maintain comfort and reduce redness.

6. Protection from external factors

– Use oily sunscreens outdoors (especially for the cheek area).
– Don't wear scarves that are too tight, which can rub your skin – choose soft, natural fabrics.
– Try to maintain an optimal humidity of 40–60% indoors – this is best not only for the skin, but also for the respiratory tract.

7. Additional care – not just cosmetics

– Use humidifiers .
– Drink enough water.
– Consume Omega-3 fatty acids, which strengthen the skin barrier from the inside.
– Good sleep, less stress – directly affects the condition of the skin.

Conclusion

Autumn and winter are periods when skin needs not only daily care, but also conscious care. During the heating season, it is important to protect the skin barrier, replenish moisture, and use gentle but effective products.

The Japanese beauty methodology is subtle but very targeted: it focuses on long-term skin health. Beža offers high-quality Japanese cosmetics that can help